On Mon, Jan 23, 2023 at 11:14 AM Mike Stein via cctalk < cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote:
> I offered some 8" diskettes a while back and didn't have a single inquiry, > and there doesn't seem to be a real shortage of other sizes either if you > don't mind sorting through used ones; even paper and mylar tape seem to > still be available. > True, eBay always has blank media, lots of it new-old stock still in the shrinkwrap. I have a pile of such myself. When it comes to parts I often read complaints that a certain IC or part is > unobtainium when a quick look on ebay or even Amazon will find a dozen > listings; some people get satisfaction from finding parts or documentation > that no one else could and sharing with the community. > A lot of that apparently is fake Chinesium, so it's somewhat misleading. > As to the reliability of mechanical devices, again, to each his/her own; > what is a frustrating experience for someone trying to get something done > is an opportunity for someone else to repair it and get that satisfaction. > At least, unlike some mysterious custom IC you can see what the problem is > and repair it. > I prefer using the original hardware myself, but I do enjoy the convenience of modern high-capacity memory drives and emulators. Sellam
